Horseshoes and accessories

Abstract

Horseshoe characterized by the use of a compliance layer (6,7), preferably made of plastic foam, more preferably with fibers and / or threads and / or textiles, and most preferably with a spacer textile.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a horseshoe Horseshoes are found on horses and other equines, including donkeys. In the following, all equines relevant to horseshoes will be referred to as horses.

[0002] Horseshoes were originally made only of iron.

[0003] The term "horseshoe" is also sometimes used for items made entirely or partially of other materials. The crucial function is to protect the hoof and to secure it to the underside of the hoof.

[0004] Accessories for horseshoes can include hoof rings and hoof plates.

[0005] The hoof plates are intended to completely or partially close the opening of the horseshoe. Hoof rings are defined as items that, shaped to resemble horseshoes, can be attached beneath them.

[0006] It has long been known that horseshoes are not only used to protect the hoof from wear and tear. For example, horseshoes can be used to treat joint problems. Leather horseshoes are also known.

[0007] Joint problems can arise, for example, from horses constantly running on modern asphalt and concrete roads. This can be counteracted by fitting horseshoes with shock absorption.

[0008] To cushion the impact, the horseshoes are optionally provided with flexible layers.

[0009] The flexibility layer can be installed as a plate that extends over the entire underside of the hoof, or a layer that mimics the horseshoe can be used.

[0010] The flexible layer can be placed under the horseshoe or as an intermediate layer between the horseshoe and the horse's hoof. It can be installed by screwing or gluing. Nailing can also be used to secure both the horseshoe and the intermediate layer. In detail:

[0011] The AT47536 is known to contain a shock-absorbing insert plate for a horseshoe.

[0012] Patent applications AT70289, DE66650, DE66714, DE71743, DE72047, DE78909, and DE888323 disclose a horseshoe with an elastic insert that is encompassed by the inwardly curved ends of the horseshoe. Such a horseshoe is also described in patent AT389979. The elastic insert described there is said to have an edge portion that repels foreign bodies.

[0013] Elastic insoles are also described in DE25080.

[0014] DE37591 describes rubber soles for horseshoes.

[0015] Elastic insoles for horseshoes are also described in CH47334. These insoles are provided with a profile designed to prevent the insole from twisting inside the horseshoe.

[0016] CH57177 also describes a horseshoe with an elastic insert. This elastic insert is used in conjunction with a cap to protect the horse's hoof. The cap is replaceable and is fastened with a screw. The elastic insert is designed to be positioned between the horse's hoof and the screw, thus eliminating any associated risk of injury.

[0017] CH56451 describes a rubber air cushion for filling cavities in a horseshoe. This flexible cavity filler is intended to hold snow and push the snow out again when needed.

[0018] Horseshoes with rubber studs are described in AT144406 and CH63719. A similar design is provided for in CH186693. CH202991 also shows a flexible material, in this case in the form of flexible wedges made of rubber or the like.

[0019] Patent CH144161 describes a device to prevent horses from slipping. This device uses rubber rollers that are held securely under the hoof and come into contact with the ground, so that the rolling resistance of the rubber prevents the horse from slipping.

[0020] In CH157489, CH182561, DE1448, DE1742, DE1877, DE3494, DE38245, DE38876, DE42624, DE52150, DE63681, DE66009, DE66075, and DE2557288, insert plates in various variations made of rubber are described, which are intended to protrude from the horseshoe as shock absorber and anti-slip inserts, so that the impact load for horses when walking on hard roads is reduced and the risk of slipping for the horses is reduced.

[0021] However, horseshoes with a flexible layer have not seen widespread use.

[0022] This is attributed to the fact that the existing compliance elements / layers are perceived as inconvenient to handle. The various improvement efforts outlined in the aforementioned publications confirm this.

[0023] According to the invention, the horseshoes and accessories are improved by the features of the main claim. The dependent claims describe preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0024] According to the invention, for shock absorption, flexible elements / flexible layers on horseshoes and their accessories are manufactured entirely or partially from plastic foam and / or from fibers / threads, preferably from textiles, and even more preferably from spacer fabric.

[0025] The plastic foam can, for example, consist of -Polystyrene (PS), especially polystyrene foam -Polyethylene (PE), especially polyethylene foam -Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), especially ethylene vinyl acetate foam -Polyurethane (PU), in particular polyurethane foam including engineering polyurethane (TPU)

[0026] Spacer fabrics consist of two spaced-apart textile layers connected by threads. The textile layers can be separate layers sewn together at a distance from each other. Preferably, a knitted fabric is used as the spacer fabric, in which an endless yarn is guided to form the spaced-apart textile layers and connect them with threads. Such knitted fabrics are commercially available as so-called 3D layers, but can also be manufactured using special constructions. In conventional knitted fabrics, the threads connecting the spaced-apart textile layers usually run at an angle to the plane of the textile layers, preferably with threads at different angles. An angle of inclination of approximately 45 degrees for the threads connecting the spaced layers is advantageous.Similarly, textile layers with vertically oriented threads or with a greater / lesser inclination towards the textile layers can be produced. In particular, the threads inclined towards each other result in high shear strength. Due to this shear strength, the flexible layer according to the invention can withstand the shear load that acts on the horseshoes when the horse moves, especially during acceleration and braking.

[0027] Advantageously, the spacer fabrics can also be produced with a crosswise laying / knitting of the inclined threads. Depending on the design, any inclination from any direction can be counteracted.

[0028] Preferably, a spacer fabric with a compliance of at least 1 mm, more preferably at least 2 mm, and most preferably at least 3 mm is used. To achieve the desired compliance, the total thickness of the spacer fabric is greater than the desired compliance. The greater the desired spring force, the greater the thickness of the threads connecting the two layers must be, assuming the same material properties and weave / knitting technique. Thicknesses of 1 to 12.5 mm are commercially available for spacer fabrics, but greater thicknesses can also be obtained. Even small thicknesses of the spacer fabric can produce a significant damping effect. Furthermore, the thickness of the threads connecting the spaced textile layers can be varied. The same applies to the inclination of the threads.

[0029] Everything has an effect on compliance.

[0030] Shock absorption is characterized by the dynamic resistance of the flexible element / flexible layer upon impact of a horse's hoof. This resistance increases with increasing compression of the flexible element / flexible layer and decreases again after reaching its maximum value as the horse continues to move. The movement of the horse, or rather its hoof, involves lifting the hoof and the subsequent return of the flexible element / flexible layer. With the lifting of the hoof, the flexible element / flexible layer returns to the initial position / shape it held before the impact of the horse's hoof.

[0031] The resistance when compressing the flexibility element / flexibility layer is equivalent to the spring force that assists in lifting the hoof.

[0032] A noticeable relief / shock absorption occurs even with a spring force of 10 kg, preferably 40 kg, more preferably 70 kg and most preferably 100 kg, (based on the total loaded area of ​​the compliance layer under the hoof)

[0033] It is also advantageous if the spring force of the resilient layer is limited to a level that is at most a fraction of the horse's weight. This is based on the consideration that with each impact of a hoof on the ground, only the initial impact needs to be cushioned, and the subsequent load is reflexively absorbed by the horse's muscles. Even more preferred is a spring force of at most half the horse's weight, and most preferred is at most a quarter of the horse's weight (based on the total area of ​​the resilient layer under load on one hoof).

[0034] The flexible layer also has a compensating effect by smoothing out irregularities in the contact surfaces of the horse's hoof or horseshoe. Furthermore, the flexible layer also compensates for differing distances between contact surfaces that would otherwise lead to gaps.

[0035] The flexibility element is of particular importance for the frog of the horse's hoof. While the frog should be protected from significant stress, minimal stress on it can be very beneficial. A hoof plate and a flexibility layer allow the load to be controlled as desired. If no stress is desired, the distance between the opposing hoof plate surfaces can be chosen to prevent contact. In this case, the hoof plate must be sufficiently strong / load-bearing to protect the frog from stress caused, for example, by stones the horse steps on.

[0036] If low stress is desired, this can be achieved by using a correspondingly small gap and / or by making the flexible element / layer on the surface opposite the frog more pliable. This can include either constant contact of the flexible element / layer or intermittent contact. This requires a corresponding degree of flexibility in the hoof plate. Even with this flexibility, the hoof plate still offers the advantage of noticeable protection for the frog on the hoof.

[0037] A separate spacer fabric can be created for each desired spring force. Alternatively, an existing spacer fabric can be stiffened to achieve a higher / greater spring force. For this purpose, the spacer fabrics can be formed into elements that can be combined with stiffer and / or softer compliance elements.

[0038] Preferably, a layered combination of elements with different compliances takes place.

[0039] Alternatively, the elements can also be arranged side by side. Square, rectangular, or honeycomb-shaped forms are suitable for this purpose, as they can be assembled into a layer. The desired shape or form for the horseshoes or accessories can then be cut or worked out of this layer.

[0040] Optionally, the compliance layers are -produced in a mold. This is particularly advantageous for large production runs. The blowing agent-laden plastic can be poured or injected into the mold in molten form, causing it to foam up and become confined by the mold walls. Cooling the molten plastic against the mold walls inhibits or stops the foaming process, resulting in a firmer outer layer compared to the surrounding foam. After the flexible layer has cooled, its outer layer can be further reinforced if required. This can be achieved by applying heat or chemically. Standard heating devices with adjustable heating power are suitable for this purpose. For smaller production runs, machining the flexible layer from a larger piece of raw material can be more advantageous. If the raw material is not too flexible, machining is possible. This is usually done with a hot wire. The hot wire also has the advantage of melting the cut surfaces. In the melted area, the foam largely collapses, resulting in a hardening of the cut surfaces. The melting process can be controlled by the heating temperature and feed rate of the cutting device. The raw material can be foamed in one piece as a block or sheet. Such blocks or sheets are commercially available in many grades and sizes of plastic foam. Blocks or sheets made of particle foam are generally less expensive.

[0041] For example, the following properties are provided for prefabricated compliance elements according to the invention made of polyurethane (PU) integral foam. - A solidified outer layer of 0.5 to 0.8 mm thickness on the integral foam. Smaller or larger thicknesses can also be achieved if required, especially in combination with other layers. Possible methods for designing the outer layer are explained below. -Outer layer hardness up to 55 Shore A. Higher and lower hardnesses can also be achieved if required, especially in combination with other layers. Possible methods for designing the outer layer are explained below. The flexibility in the core of the integral foam is characterized by an elastic zone in which the PU foam recovers its shape after the pressure is released. A PU foam suitable for the application according to the invention is one that, after an impact with permissible deformation and subsequent release of pressure, preferably restores at least 90% of its initial layer height / thickness in less than 0.25 seconds. Deformation is permissible as long as the elastic deformation zone is not exceeded. The elastic deformation zone is material-dependent. The density has a significant influence. For example, with a density of 350 kg per cubic meter, the elastic deformation zone can be between 45% and 55% of the layer height / thickness.

[0042] Furthermore, single or multiple values ​​may result for the PU integral foam. -Compression module --at 10% deformation: 0.45 - 0.65 MPa --at 20% deformation: 0.70 - 1.10 MPa -Compression set at 25% compression in 24h at 23 degrees Celsius --Compaction 5-12% -Energy input & energy output --Energy absorption 0.45 -0.65 J / cubic centimeter --Energy return 30 - 40% - Elastic recovery rate during dynamic load test: 1 Hz, 5 mm stroke --Reset to 5% of the initial height in less than 0.25 seconds --approximately complete reset in less than 1 second -Load deformation curve --linear-elastic range up to 12-15% elongation --Plateau phase at 0.4-0.8 MPa --Compaction begins at approximately 45-55% elongation

[0043] Alternatively, the cavity within a spacer fabric can be used to modify its flexibility by filling the cavity with a different material of suitable grain size. This other material could be, for example, -Polystyrene (PS), especially polystyrene foam -Polyethylene (PE), especially polyethylene foam -Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), especially ethylene vinyl acetate foam -Polyurethane (PU), in particular polyurethane foam including engineering polyurethane (TPU) -also mixtures of different plastics

[0044] The grain size and fill level of the spacer fabric are chosen to allow the desired flexibility.

[0045] The void space of the spacer fabric depends on the number and arrangement of the threads that connect the spaced textile layers. Both uniform and uneven thread distributions are possible.

[0046] By unevenly distributing the threads, larger spaces can be created between closely spaced threads, in which, for example, larger volumes of interconnected foam particles can be formed.

[0047] When the spacer textiles are to be filled, one or more filling openings are provided for introducing the foam particles or foam components.

[0048] Achieving the desired thread arrangement depends on the manufacturing process for the spacer fabric, ranging from simple to complex. Spacer fabrics produced as knitted materials using a raschel knitting machine require adjustments to the control system and, if necessary, structural modifications to alter the thread distribution. The process differs when two separate textiles are joined together in a spaced position. This allows for the joining of the spaced textiles with an intervening layer of elastic material to form a single spacer fabric. The design of the resulting cavity can be customized within broad limits. The spacing of the seams can be varied, as can the height of the seams, which are often referred to as bar seams, by compressing the seam during sewing.

[0049] Optionally, particularly in the area of ​​the frog at the hoof, a fill level of the spacer fabric is selected that is less than 90%, preferably less than 80%, even more preferably less than 70%, and most preferably less than 60%, in order to, for example, aerate the underside of the hoof. This aeration can counteract rot. The aeration can be enhanced by directing the airflow.

[0050] Alternatively, a medium other than air can be directed into the spacer textile according to the invention, for example a special gas or liquid for the treatment of a hoof disease or for hoof care.

[0051] Preferably, the cavity of the spacer fabric is filled with flexible foam particles. These foam particles are, for example, polystyrene foam particles. Such foam particles are commercially available. Other commercially available foam particles also exist.

[0052] New, flexible foam particles can also be produced as needed. The usual method involves extruding appropriately blowing agent-loaded fine melt strands, which are then granulated after foaming. Underwater pelletizing prevents the resulting foam particles from immediately sticking together. During underwater pelletizing, the emerging melt strands are cooled so intensely at the surface that the foaming process is slowed down or stopped. The less foamed outer layer then solidifies. The resulting foam particles, with a solidified outer layer and a more flexible core, form an integral foam.

[0053] Other foam particles can be obtained by comminuting foam bodies with suitable properties, particularly with a suitable density. Various comminution methods can be used for this comminution. Preferably, comminution is carried out by grinding. Grinding involves the application of pressure and friction. With sufficient friction, a hardening can occur on the particle surface, transforming the particles into an integral foam. Integral foams are all foams with a hardened outer layer (so that the foam is more flexible in the remaining areas than at the outer layer).

[0054] The foam particles are sorted selectively, preferably by size. Sorting can be done by classification. Classification is a processing method. Classification can be carried out by sieving. Various sieves are used for this purpose. Each sieve has different opening sizes.

[0055] Conventional wire mesh sieves are referred to as having a mesh size. Each sieve removes all particles that remain on the surface. Preferably, such sieves are designed so that a mixture with a specific particle size distribution can be produced after sieving.

[0056] Advantageously, not only can different grain sizes be mixed, but also mixtures of foam particles made from different materials. This allows for the manipulation of various properties. These include: -bulk density - Flow behavior of particles when filling spacer textiles -Strength of the compliance layer -Compliance behavior -Aging behavior -Protection and wear behavior

[0057] A roller device, particularly one with at least two rollers, is also suitable for comminution. These rollers have a surface equipped with rasping protrusions and are rotated in opposite directions and / or at different speeds, so that foam particles that get between the rollers are torn apart. The particles produced by tearing can be handled in the same way as particles reduced by friction and pressure.

[0058] However, the particles broken down by tearing have a different (rougher) surface than those broken down by friction and pressure. The particles behave differently in the mixture, influencing the properties of the flexible layer produced with spacer fabric.

[0059] Variations can occur if the particles produced by comminution are subjected to pretreatment, such as heat treatment, before further processing.

[0060] Various plastics are suitable for a flexible layer made of foam particles according to the invention. These include, in particular, -Polystyrene (PS), especially polystyrene foam -Polyethylene (PE), especially polyethylene foam -Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), especially ethylene vinyl acetate foam -Polyurethane (PU), in particular polyurethane foam including engineering polyurethane (TPU) -also mixtures of different plastics

[0061] The typical application of polystyrene foam particles is in the production of building boards and packaging materials. The foam particles are welded together by being exposed to hot steam. When used as a filling for spacer fabrics, the foam particles can lie loosely against each other. However, the foam particles can also be welded together within the spacer fabric, resulting in at least larger foam particles, preferably a uniform foam layer, and even more preferably a single, continuous foam layer within the spacer fabric.

[0062] Alternatively, the foam particles can be welded together under pressure. The pressure causes the foam particles to compress during welding. The pressure is preferably limited so that the weld remains intact even when the pressure is released from the resulting foam layer.

[0063] Alternatively, the foam can also be generated in situ within the spacer fabric. This can be achieved, for example, with cold-cured polyurethane foam. The components are introduced into the spacer fabric in liquid form and as a mixture. The mixture then foams up. This process preferably creates uniform, single-piece foam layers within the spacer fabric.

[0064] According to the invention, the compliance material should preferably meet the following requirements profile in the standard case: -so flexible that it protects the horse's joints, muscles and tendons, So hard that no permanent deformation occurs during normal riding. With some experience and estimation, the desired properties can be significantly achieved in the flexible material.

[0065] Where more precise information is required, the following procedure can be used: The impact pressure on the hooves is decisive for the design. This impact pressure can be determined using horseshoes that are attached to the horse's hooves and reliably provide information about the impact pressure on the horseshoe via pressure sensors, either continuously or at intervals as needed. The measurement results can be transmitted wirelessly via small transmitters in or on the horseshoe and stationary or mobile receivers. A stationary setup is preferably used in the riding arena, while a mobile setup is preferred for trail riding.

[0066] Once sufficient measurements of impact pressure are available from various documented rides with different horses and riders, the impact pressure can be predetermined for further horses and riders, so that the correct horseshoes or the correct compliance material can be selected for single or multiple applications.

[0067] The impact pressure and the speed of movement or number of steps of the horse influence the necessary elasticity, deformation in the available deformation time, the deformation path and the necessary return before each further step.

[0068] Furthermore, the specific riding situation may necessitate different deformation behaviors along the deformation path, for example, creating a large deformation path at the beginning of the deformation to absorb the peak load on the hoof. This is of particular interest in show jumping.

[0069] The number of measurements can be sufficient after just a few rides, or in extreme cases, after a single ride. The more comparable rides are documented, the better the expected impact pressure on the hoof can be predicted and the appropriate material for the horseshoe can be determined.

[0070] The flexibility material according to the invention optionally consists of polyester. Polyester exhibits extreme stability when deformed and is used as a flexibility material on a hoof or accessory. Heat treatment can significantly contribute to particularly high flexural elasticity.

[0071] Alternatively, the flexible material can consist of polyamides, polyacrylates, or aramids. Preferably, polyurethane (PU) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) is used as the flexible material. It can also be a mixture of one or more of the listed plastics, or a mixture with fibers.

[0072] Flexible profiles / springs can be formed from plastics. Flexible foam layers are created by mixing a blowing agent into the base material. There are chemical and physical blowing agents. The blowing agent is mixed in while the plastic is in a plastic state. Depending on its composition, the foam has different properties. This can be used to influence desired properties by changing the foam's composition. For example, more or less blowing agent can be used. This leads, as desired, to more or fewer bubbles in the plastic. The bubbles are referred to as cells in the plastic. Up to a certain material-specific proportion, only closed bubbles / cells are formed. The closed-cell foam acts like a spring, with a high or low spring force depending on its composition. With a higher material-specific blowing agent content, only open bubbles / cells are formed.The foam then acts like a sponge, and just like sponges, there are soft and hard open-cell foams with high or low compliance. Generally, foams described as closed-cell are not 100% closed, but only a high percentage, for example, 95% closed-cell. For foams described as open-cell, 100% open-cell density is also not usually required. Advantageously, the compliance can also be adjusted by modifying the closed-cell / open-cell density. This is achieved by changing the amount of blowing agent. That is, if a higher percentage of open-cell density is desired, more blowing agent is used; if a lower percentage of open-cell density is desired, less blowing agent is used. Open-cell and closed-cell foams can be combined with each other, for example, in layers.For example, in a layered sequence: soft, harder, even harder. The layers can be easily joined together, for example by sewing, gluing, or, if necessary, welding. Welding always requires that the layers to be joined have a sufficient weldable material content, at least at the welding surface. Alternatively, layers made of different plastics can also be combined.

[0073] The foams can also be produced in layers 1 mm thick and less, optionally with interposed and / or embedded textiles. The compliance behavior or resilience of the foam layers can be very advantageously adapted to any desired characteristic curve.

[0074] The layers can already have the correct shape for a hoof, or they can be cut from flat / sheet-shaped raw material and adapted to the hoof in situ.

[0075] When flexible layers are foamed as molded parts in a mold using liquid, plastic, or molten material, hardening at the edges can be achieved by cooling the mold wall. Edge hardening can also be achieved chemically. Foam produced in this way is also called integral foam.

[0076] Optionally, a protective or wear layer is applied to the outside of the flexible material. Film-like protective and wear layers are advantageous. In film form, these layers can be easily applied to the hoof, preferably by gluing. Excess material can be trimmed and finished in the usual way, for example, by rasping, filing, or sanding.

[0077] A protective and wear layer can also be provided on the underside of the horseshoe or on the underside of a flexible layer arranged beneath the horseshoe. In this case, the protective or wear layer forms the sole of the hoof. A profiled layer, especially a surface with studs, is advantageous.

[0078] All protective and wear layers can be used. These include, for example, layers made of -Polystyrene (PS), especially polystyrene foam -Polyethylene (PE), especially polyethylene foam -Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), especially ethylene vinyl acetate foam -Polyurethane (PU), in particular polyurethane foam including engineering polyurethane (TPU) -Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

[0079] The plastics in question can, for example, be extruded directly as films or produced from particles that are bonded together.

[0080] The protective and wear layers are attached as a separate layer to the flexible layers or are part of another layer. For example, it could be a layer of PS, PE, EVA, or PU melted onto the plastic foam. Preferably, the protective and wear layer is formed as an integral layer during the production of a flexible layer or several / all flexible layers.

[0081] PVC is particularly -as soft PVC, soft, flexible and elastic -chemically resistant -wear-resistant, -durable, -moisture-resistant -inexpensive - bonds well with other plastics.

[0082] Polystyrene, polyethylene, and polyvinyl acetate are produced by the polymerization of styrene, ethylene, and vinyl acetate, respectively. EVA is produced by the copolymerization of ethylene and vinyl acetate. The properties of EVA depend on the ratio of ethylene to vinyl acetate in the copolymer.

[0083] High wear resistance and fracture toughness are advantageous. Such wear resistance is achieved with an abrasion of ≤ 300 mg on a test surface as performed according to DIN ISO 4649.

[0084] Polyurethane (PU) is produced by combining polyol and isocyanate. Both components are liquid in their initial state. When the two components are mixed, a polyaddition reaction occurs, followed by solidification. The reaction generates no significant heat, which is why it is called cold foam. PU cold foam is used extensively in mattress production. PU is particularly well-suited for development because even very simple shapes are suitable for producing initial resilient layers.

[0085] With the concept according to the invention described above, it is readily possible to find PU foams which, when combined with other PU layers and / or other plastic foam layers, exhibit the desired deformation and recovery when applied to flexible elements for hooves. Advantageously, there are also PU materials that, on their own, exhibit the desired flexibility and recovery. As an example, reference is made to a spacer textile embedded in integral PU foam, wherein the integral foam comprises: Shore A hardness 45 to 50 in the core Material behavior 60 to 65 in a solidified outer layer, actively elastically springy, whereby the PU core exhibits rapid recovery and the spacer textile supports the recovery, preventing sagging under continuous load. Mechanical stability permanently elastic and dimensionally stable elasticity soft and elastic, Provision in less than 0.25 seconds, Pressure distribution excellent, especially in reducing pressure spikes leveling of unevenness terrific, Bearing edge behavior excellent, also caused by spacer fabric Abrasion resistance high Moisture resistance + UV resistance high Suitability for sports very good Suitable for leisure activities. Helpful for joint diseases. very good Hoof diseases Wedge options very good front / back / side

[0086] EVA is available as a raw material in granular form and can also be melted in an extruder and used for injection molding or compression molding processes, so that the development results can be reliably used for series production.

[0087] The plastic mixture may also contain fibers. The fibers are intended to reinforce the foam.

[0088] The fibers can be evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Stirrers and similar devices are suitable for this purpose. Extruders are also, in a broad sense, stirrers. The fibers can also be arranged selectively to achieve higher strength in specific areas. These are, for example, areas subject to particular wear and / or deformation. Textiles made of fibers or threads can also be used for the targeted arrangement of fibers. Wear resistance and deformation resistance are regularly required on the outer surfaces. In contrast, particular flexibility in the core of the molded parts can be advantageous.

[0089] Particular advantages arise from the use of textiles. Textiles can be manufactured with a wide variety of deformation properties and strengths. There are single-layer and multi-layer fabrics and other textiles. This includes a diverse range of textiles. The textiles can also be combined in any way desired: loosely layered or firmly bonded, lying directly on top of each other or spaced apart, lying flat or shaped. Spaced-spaced fabrics are advantageous

[0090] After foaming, the resulting molded parts are shaped and processed into hoof flexibility elements according to the invention. Alternatively, plates in the shape of the invention are produced and the desired layers are cut from them. Any shape can be realized for the flexibility elements. This also includes any wedge shape with an inclination in any desired direction on any affected hoof.

[0091] The flexible spacer fabric layer according to the invention can, for example, be provided as an intermediate layer in any known shape, provided that the distance between the adjacent layers is variable. In this case, it is advantageous to bond the intermediate layer to the other layers of the horseshoe. Existing screw connections can be converted to adhesive connections if no other location in the horseshoe's construction is suitable for an adhesive bond.

[0092] If a hoof boot is already provided on the hoof, the flexibility layer according to the invention can be glued on as an intermediate layer.

[0093] It is advantageous if the flexible layer according to the invention is inserted into the hoof boot in a replaceable manner. Then, if necessary, a different flexible layer according to the invention can easily be inserted. In this way, the flexible layers according to the invention can, for example, be easily replaced with new / different ones in the case of hoof diseases, or cleaned and re-prepared.

[0094] Determining the required level of compliance is necessary to select / adjust the correct compliance element / layer. One method for determining the necessary details has already been outlined above. Alternatively, the requirement can also be determined by estimating and subsequently replacing compliance elements / layers if a chosen embodiment does not improve shock absorption or results in excessive shock absorption.

[0095] For easier replacement, fastening the flexible elements / flexible layer with screws can be advantageous. This allows the hoof to be protected by a multi-part horseshoe design, where the hoof-side part of the horseshoe is held in the hoof horn with horseshoe nails, and the remaining layers are screwed to the horn-side part of the horseshoe. This also includes the possibility of clamping an intermediate layer with the layer on the side facing away from the hoof.

[0096] To more quickly achieve the correct adjustment of shock absorption, pressure measuring devices can be used. This involves arranging several pressure plates side by side or one behind the other and having the horse walk over them in a representative gait, or possibly in all different gaits. The pressure plates can be of the type used in traffic monitoring to check permissible truck loads. Such pressure plates can be multi-layered, with pressure sensors positioned between the layers. The pressure sensors generate electrical measurement signals that are transmitted to a computer via cables or wirelessly. These computers record the pressure profile. When a pressure is distributed across multiple sensors, the computers calculate the relevant pressure from all measurements, taking into account the position and distance of the sensors from the point of pressure.

[0097] The drawing shows various embodiments of the invention.

[0098] Fig. Figure 1 shows a hoof ring 1 made of 3D knitted fabric, the shape of which, viewed from above, is modeled on the shape of a conventional horseshoe. It is a commercially available 3D knitted fabric with a basis weight of 300 grams per square meter. The properties of commercially available 3D knitted fabrics are determined by their basis weight.

[0099] The thickness of hoof ring 1 is 5mm.

[0100] A PVC layer is provided on the front of the hoof ring as a wear layer. The wear layer has a thickness of 1 mm and is bonded to hoof ring 1.

[0101] The back of the hoof ring 1 is glued to the underside of the horseshoe. This is done while the horseshoe is still on the horse's hoof. If necessary, the hoof ring 1 is removed from the horse's hoof and a new hoof ring 1 is glued on.

[0102] Fig. Figure 2 shows a plate 2 made of 3D knitted fabric with the same properties as the 3D knitted fabric of the hoof ring 1, but without a wear layer.

[0103] Plate 2 is designed to be inserted into horseshoes with horse boots.

[0104] Fig. Figure 3 shows a section of a horseshoe with a horseshoe 5, a screwed-on flexibility element made of foam layers 6 and 7, and a hoof sole 8, which encloses the hoof with sides 9. The foam layers 6 and 7 consist of PU foam with different degrees of flexibility, so that after initial yielding, the flexibility decreases rapidly, thus preventing an abrupt end to the yielding in the exemplary embodiment. The hoof sole 8 forms a wear layer and a protective layer. The hoof sole 8 consists of an unfoamed PVC film.

[0105] Layers 6, 7 and 8 are glued together after being adapted to the horseshoe.

[0106] Fig. Figure 4 shows a greatly enlarged section of a flexible element made of a spacer fabric with a foam filling. The spacer fabric consists of an upper textile layer 13 and a lower textile layer 14, which are connected to each other by threads 12. In the exemplary embodiment, the spacer fabric is a knitted fabric in which a yarn is guided in such a way as to form the layers 13 and 14 and the connecting threads 12. The cavity between the layers 13 and 14 and the threads 12 is filled with foam particles 11. The foam particles 11 have different sizes, so that the cavity between the larger foam particles is largely filled by smaller foam particles 11.

[0107] The foam particles 11 consist of polyurethane (PU).

[0108] In this embodiment, the flexible element is designed for bonding under the horseshoe. The underside of the flexible element is protected with a layer 15 of unfoamed polyurethane. Similarly, a protective layer (not shown) is provided on the outside of the hoof. To apply the protective layers, the contact surfaces on the hoof are ground. The protective layers are then bonded together.

[0109] In other embodiments, the spacer fabric consists of separate textile layers. These textile layers are sewn together with an intervening elastic material. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 888323

[0012] AT 389979

[0012] AT 144406

[0018] CH 186693

[0018] CH 144161

[0019] CH 157489

[0020] DE 2557288

[0020]

Claims

[1] horseshoe characterized by Use of a compliance layer (6,7), preferably made of plastic foam, more preferably with fibers and / or threads and / or textiles, and most preferably with a spacer textile. [2] Horseshoe according to claim 1, characterized by a hoof ring as a compliance layer made of spacer fabric or by a plate as a compliance layer made of spacer fabric. [3] Horseshoe according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a composition of the flexibility layer (6,7) consisting of several layers and / or a composition of elements, preferably with at least one molded part as a layer and / or a section of larger starting material [4] Horseshoe according to claim 3, characterized by Layers and / or elements with different properties, preferably made of different foams, even more preferably with foam layers (6,7) of different compliance [5] Horseshoe according to claim 3 or 4, characterized by Layers (6,7) and / or molded pieces of particle foam (11) and / or layers (6,7) of one-piece foam, preferably of closed-cell and / or open-cell foam, even more preferably made of PU foam and / or EVA foam. [6] Horseshoe according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by Foam layers (6,7) under load with thickness reduction to 1mm or less. [7] Horseshoe according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by a compliance of at least 1mm, preferably at least 2mm and even more preferably at least 3mm. [8] Horseshoe according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by Foam layers (6,7) and embedded fibers and / or embedded threads and / or embedded textiles, preferably spacer textiles, more preferably spacer textiles with a thickness of 1 to 12.5mm in the unloaded state. [9] Horseshoe according to claim 8, characterized by a spacer fabric made of spacer knit or made from spacer fabric or spacer fabric, which consists of two spaced-apart separate layers of fabric connected by threads. [10] Horseshoe according to claim 8 or 9, characterized by the use of a spacer fabric with inclined threads between spaced textile layers [11] Horseshoe according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized by Crosswise laid / knitted threads between the spaced textile layers. [12] Horseshoe according to claim 9, characterized by that the separate layers of fabric are sewn together. [13] Horseshoes according to claims 8 to 12, characterized by that the spacer textiles are provided with filling openings for introducing foam particles or foam components. [14] Horseshoe according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized bya wear layer and / or protective layers on the wear-prone or pressure-loaded outer surfaces of the flexibility elements. [15] Horseshoe according to claim 14, characterized by that an unfoamed or foamed plastic material is provided on the outer surface of the flexibility elements. [16] Horseshoe according to claim 15, characterized by that the foam filling in the spacer fabric is an integral foam. [17] Horseshoe according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized by square, rectangular or honeycomb-shaped compliance elements. [18] Horseshoe according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized by Particles (11) from the autoclave and / or ground foam particles (11) and / or cracked foam particles (11). [19] Horseshoe according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized by a complete or partial filling of the cavities of the spaced textile layers with foam particles(11). [20] Horseshoes according to claims 1 to 19, characterized by a filling with foam particles (11), in particular made of polyurethane or polystyrene or EVA

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